Portland is a city that combines culinary innovation with stunning scenery and a love for local produce. Whether you’re a wine lover, a seafood enthusiast, or someone who prefers a relaxed cruise with great food, Portland offers a range of memorable lunch experiences. We’re particularly fond of the Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch, which combines Oregon’s world-class Pinot Noir with a scenic vineyard lunch — a true highlight for wine connoisseurs. But if you’re after a full day of exploring Mount Hood and the Columbia Gorge with wine in hand, the Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine delivers a seamless balance of sightseeing, hiking, and tastings. Portland’s lunch offerings aren’t just about food—they’re about the experience, the scenery, and the stories behind each sip and bite.
Whether you prefer a leisurely river cruise with Northwest cuisine, an urban seafood walk in Maine, or a private wine tasting adventure with a seasoned winemaker, this guide covers the best options. Each tour offers a different way to enjoy Portland’s rich local flavors and stunning landscapes, making it easier than ever to pick your perfect midday escape.
Quick Overview of Portland’s Best Lunch Tours
Our list includes wine tours with vineyard lunches, waterfall and scenic tours with wine and lunch included, a river cruise with live entertainment and fresh Northwest cuisine, and specialty seafood walking tours in Maine. Each experience offers something unique — from intimate private tastings to full-day explorations — ensuring there’s a perfect match for every type of traveler. Now, let’s dive into what makes each of these tours special.
1. Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch
At number 1, the Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch is a full-day adventure that captures Oregon’s renowned wine scene. For about $210 per person, you get roughly 7.5 hours of guided access to up to 3 vineyards, where you’ll sample Pinots, Chardonnays, and Rieslings. The tour is perfect whether you’re just discovering wines or are already familiar with Oregon’s signature varietals. The guides are well-trained and share insightful details about wine grape production and regional nuances.
What sets this tour apart is the included wine country style lunch at a vineyard—a real treat that complements the tastings beautifully. If you’re eager to see the region’s best wineries without the hassle of planning, this tour provides a well-rounded experience with a friendly, knowledgeable guide. Reviewers highlight how the guides personalize the trip, and the wine selections are top-notch. It’s ideal for those who want a deep dive into Oregon’s best wines paired with a scenic drive through lush vineyards.
Bottom Line: A great choice for wine lovers who want to combine taste, scenery, and expert insight in one seamless day.
2. Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine Included
Next on our list is the Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine, priced at $179 per person. It’s an 8- to 9-hour outing that makes the most of Oregon’s stunning natural scenery. You’ll visit Multnomah Falls, the iconic cascade of the Columbia Gorge, and stop at Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood, a historic site with breathtaking views and year-round skiing.
What makes this tour special is the combination of sightseeing, light hiking, and wine tasting at two regional wineries. The included lunch—hosted at a local venue—allows you to relax and enjoy the region’s flavors. The intimate small-group atmosphere and the knowledgeable guide make this a stress-free way to explore without worrying about driving. Visitors consistently praise the guide for sharing local tips and stories.
The tour balances adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for nature lovers who want a taste of everything—waterfalls, mountain views, and Oregon wines. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out but prefer someone else to handle logistics.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want scenic waterfalls, mountain vistas, and regional wines with the convenience of an all-in-one guided day.
3. Private Customized Willamette Valley Wine Maker Tour with Lunch
If you’re after a highly personalized experience, the Private Customized Willamette Valley Wine Maker Tour with Lunch offers tailored visits to around four estate wineries, all under the guidance of a seasoned local with over 30 years of experience. For $350 per person, this 8.5-hour tour allows you to craft your own itinerary—whether that’s focusing on Pinot Noir, exploring specific vineyards, or visiting boutique wineries.
The tour includes a gourmet picnic lunch, which you can enjoy during one of your tastings, adding a relaxed, private touch. The guide, Carmine, is praised for his extensive knowledge and ability to customize the day to your interests. You’ll get VIP access to winery cellars and insider tips, making this ideal for wine aficionados who want a more intimate experience.
Guests describe Carmine as a guide who “knows literally everyone,” and many say they learned a lot while enjoying Oregon’s finest wines in a private setting. The main drawback is the higher price, but the personalized nature and exclusive access justify it for serious wine lovers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a bespoke wine adventure with expert guidance.
4. 2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River
For a different kind of midday experience, the 2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River offers a leisurely way to see Portland from the water while enjoying a Northwest-inspired meal. Priced at $87 per person, the cruise features a freshly prepared lunch, live entertainment, and commentary about Portland’s landmarks, including the historic Hawthorne Bridge and OMSI.
Cruising under Portland’s bridges and past iconic sites like the USS Blueback submarine, you’ll get a relaxed view of the city with a gourmet meal. The admirals package is recommended as it includes appetizers, desserts, and a complimentary drink, providing great value. Reviewers mention how the atmosphere is welcoming, and the food surpasses expectations for such a short cruise.
This experience is perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with a comfortable meal and some entertainment, especially if you’re new to Portland or traveling with family. The trip’s relaxed pace and scenic views make it a memorable lunch option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a scenic, laid-back lunch with city views and a touch of live music.
5. Old Port “Seafood Lovers” Walking Lunch Tour in Portland, Maine
While technically in Maine, the Old Port Seafood Lovers Walking Lunch deserves mention for seafood fans. For $159.99, this 2.5-hour tour offers a walk along the waterfront, sampling lobster rolls, clam chowder, and local craft beer. Your guide shares insights about the lobster industry, with local treats and souvenirs to take home.
The tour is perfect for those interested in Maine’s seafood heritage, with tastings that showcase the region’s freshest catches. Reviewers love how the guide combines food facts with entertainment, making it both tasty and educational. It’s a short, engaging experience suited for a quick lunch break or a way to break up a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Great for seafood lovers wanting an authentic Maine experience in a fun, relaxed setting.
6. Oregon Wine Tour-Full Day Tour with Lunch Stop
Alternatively, the Oregon Wine Tour-Full Day Tour with Lunch offers an 8-hour day exploring three vineyards in regions like Dundee Hills and McMinnville. For $249 per person, it combines food pairings at vineyards with tastings of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay.
Guided by local wine experts, this tour emphasizes inside knowledge of the region’s winemaking process. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the opportunity to relax over a gourmet lunch during the day. It’s well suited for those wanting a rundown of Oregon’s best wines paired with meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
The value shines through the experience, especially considering the inclusion of lunch and tasting fees. The only downside might be the slightly higher price, but it’s justified by the depth of experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting a full day of tastings, food, and regional insights.
7. Private Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine included
If privacy and exclusivity matter, the Private Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine provides a personalized day tailored to your interests. For $554 per person, this private tour covers Mt. Hood, Columbia Gorge waterfalls, with lunch and wine stops included.
Travel in comfort in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a dedicated guide showing you the region’s highlights in a relaxed manner. The itinerary includes visits to four waterfalls, Timberline Lodge, and two wineries. Guests appreciate the flexibility to customize stops and the intimate setting, ideal for couples celebrating special occasions or small groups seeking a bespoke experience.
The tour’s high price reflects its exclusivity and comprehensive coverage of scenic and wine regions. Guests who value privacy and a flexible itinerary rate it highly.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a tailored, private experience with personalized attention.
8. Wine Maker Hosted Wine Tasting Private Tour with Artisan Lunch
Rounding out the list is the Wine Maker Hosted Wine Tasting Private Tour with Artisan Lunch. For $380, this 8.5-hour tour is all about customization and expert interaction. Led by a seasoned winemaker with 30 years’ experience, the tour focuses on personalized tastings at top wineries and a gourmet artisan lunch.
The guide interacts with you beforehand to tailor the experience and ensures you visit vineyards that match your preferences. Guests comment on how Carmine “knows all the best spots” and provides an engaging, in-depth look at Oregon wines. This tour is perfect for serious wine lovers looking for a deep dive into the winemaking process and a personalized experience.
The main advantage is the flexibility and expert guidance, while the higher cost reflects the tailored nature. It’s ideal for couples or small groups wanting a private, educational wine day.
Bottom Line: The best pick for wine enthusiasts wanting a private, immersive experience with expert guidance.
$380.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Portland Lunch Experience
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For instance, if you’re after a comprehensive wine tasting day with scenic vineyards, the Willamette Valley Wine Tour offers excellent value. If scenery and waterfalls are your priorities, the Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour provides a full-immersion in Oregon’s natural beauty.
Travelers seeking exclusivity and customization should consider the Private Tours or Private Mt Hood Waterfall Tour, especially if celebrating a special occasion. Those wanting a relaxed, scenic water experience may prefer the Willamette River Cruise.
Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience. Consider combining a wine tour with a scenic drive or a river cruise for a full day of Portland flavor.
To sum it up, Portland offers a range of lunch experiences from wine tastings and scenic tours to seafood walks and river cruises. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed cruise, a personalized wine adventure, or a tasty seafood walk, this city has something to satisfy your appetite for both good food and memorable scenery. Pick the experience that best matches your style, and be sure to reserve ahead — Portland waits for no one!